What happens if I get barotrauma while diving?

Barotrauma is a common problem for divers because water pressure changes rapidly as they descend; sometimes they refer to it as "squeeze." If they cannot equalize the pressure, they risk an eardrum rupture. This can be a serious problem, especially when diving, because cold water will enter the middle ear. Dizziness and nausea are common results, and divers with barotrauma risk drowning. The water can also do damage to the inner ear.